Dear Editor,
I am writing in response to the recent claims made by a Sarnia city councillor regarding the recruitment practices of the Sarnia-Lambton Children’s Aid Society. The councillor's assertion that actively seeking qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds constitutes discrimination is not only misguided, but also dangerously undermines our efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children, youth, and families in our community.
Diversity and inclusion are not only ethical and legal imperatives, but also necessities, particularly in areas like child welfare services. There is a long history of harm done by child welfare agencies towards Black, Indigenous and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Over-representation of these groups continues to this day. To mitigate the impacts of conscious and unconscious biases, it is necessary we broaden our perspective by bringing on a diverse group of qualified individuals. Research consistently demonstrates that diverse teams are more innovative, empathetic, and effective in addressing complex challenges.
By actively recruiting diverse employees, Sarnia-Lambton Children’s Aid Society can better address the unique needs of the children, youth, and families we serve. Whether it is understanding racism, cultural nuances, language barriers, or historical traumas – a diverse workforce brings invaluable perspectives that enhance our agency's ability to provide culturally sensitive and responsive services.
Promoting diversity in the workforce also sends a powerful message of inclusion and representation to the children, youth, and families involved with our organization. When families see professionals who look like them and share similar experiences, it fosters a sense of trust and validation, essential for building positive relationships.
I must also address the misconceptions that Sarnia-Lambton Children’s Aid Society is recruiting for diversity and not for qualified individuals. In fact, diversity and qualifications are not mutually exclusive – they are complementary. Only qualified individuals are hired. We have a strong, competent and diverse group of highly qualified staff.
Diversity and inclusion hiring practices are not discriminatory. They are vital steps toward creating a more equitable and inclusive system of care for children, youth, and families, and ultimately, our community as a whole.
Sincerely,
Dawn Flegel
Executive Director, Sarnia-Lambton Children’s Aid Society
- This letter is supported by, and co-signed by, the Sarnia-Lambton Social Services Network – made up of 40 local organizations. The member agencies that make up the Social Services Network of Sarnia-Lambton bring their knowledge, expertise and compassion in working with communities and individuals to make Sarnia-Lambton a better place in which to live, work and play.